The Presidential Inaugural Committee has announced that a Hindu priest will be among the spiritual leaders who will participate in the national prayer service to be held on Jan 21, the day following the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States.

The National Prayer Service, a tradition dating back to the inauguration of George Washington, will be held at the National Cathedral in Washington DC at the conclusion of the inaugural activities. The service will include scripture readings, prayers, hymns and blessings delivered by faith leaders from across the United States.